BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

100% of students studying BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science at the University of Lincoln agreed the course was intellectually stimulating, and the subject ranked in the top 20% in the UK for academic support according to the National Student Survey 2017.

The Course

The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree at Lincoln is designed to lay the foundations of knowledge needed to understand and investigate human disease. It aims to prepare students for careers as biomedical scientists in the NHS or as scientific researchers.

This course offers a broad scientific base for the investigation of human diseases. Students study topics such as haematology, clinical biochemistry, cellular pathology and medical microbiology.

There is also an overseas field trip available in your final year as part of the optional 'Overseas Field Course' module. This will allow you to study and test biological phenomena in their natural environment. Further details on the Overseas Field Course, including costs, can be found in the Features tab.

The Course

The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree at Lincoln is designed to lay the foundations of knowledge needed to understand and investigate human disease. It aims to prepare students for careers as biomedical scientists in the NHS or as scientific researchers.

This course offers a broad scientific base for the investigation of human diseases. Students study topics such as haematology, clinical biochemistry, cellular pathology and medical microbiology.

There is also an overseas field trip available in your final year as part of the optional 'Overseas Field Course' module. This will allow you to study and test biological phenomena in their natural environment. Further details on the Overseas Field Course, including costs, can be found in the Features tab.

Key Information

Full-time Duration: 3 years (4 years if taken with the optional sandwich year)

The Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) https://www.ibms.org is the professional body for those who work within the field of biomedical science.

An IBMS accredited degree programme provides students with a wide ranging, research-informed scientific education, covering the molecular, cellular and systemic basis of disease and the application of scientific principles and techniques to its investigation, diagnosis and treatment.

IBMS accreditation is an internationally recognised quality benchmark, which ensures a biomedical science degree programme is taught to a high standard, relevant to current professional practice and anticipates future developments in the scientific field.

IBMS accreditation ensures that your honours degree course meets the academic requirements for registration as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

In order to register as a biomedical scientist, you would need additionally to complete the IBMS registration portfolio in an approved laboratory.

This course provides experience of a wide variety of topics relevant to human health and disease, applicable to careers in medical and scientific research, biomedical science, and healthcare, including careers in the NHS.

The first year introduces the key areas of biomedical science, including cell biology, genetics and disease. Students have the opportunity to develop the research skills that are vital for a practising scientist.

In the second year, students study pharmacology, immunology and disease biology and can be introduced to analytical techniques.

In the final year, students examine topics such as infection science, haematology and cellular pathology, in addition to completing an individual research project.

Contact Hours and Reading for a Degree

Students on this programme learn from academic staff who are often engaged in world-leading or internationally excellent research or professional practice. Contact time can be in workshops, practical sessions, seminars or lectures and may vary from module to module and from academic year to year. Tutorial sessions and project supervision can take the form of one-to-one engagement or small group sessions. Some courses offer the opportunity to take part in external visits and fieldwork.

It is still the case that students read for a degree and this means that in addition to scheduled contact hours, students are required to engage in independent study. This allows you to read around a subject and to prepare for lectures and seminars through wider reading, or to complete follow up tasks such as assignments or revision. As a general guide, the amount of independent study required by students at the University of Lincoln is that for every hour in class you are expected to spend at least two to three hours in independent study.

This module aims to provide an introduction to the structure, composition and function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. From this basis the module considers cell specialisation and division and an introduction to microscopy, histological and microbiological techniques which may be used to safely examine and identify cells and tissues.

This module is designed to provide students with an introduction to genetics by discussing the development of genetics as a field of science, from molecular genetics through Mendelian genetics, to genetics at the population level. Students have previously studied cell biology and biochemistry, and this knowledge is built on in order to consider the replication, maintenance and expression of the genome. This module aims to provide the knowledge necessary to study applications of molecular biology at a higher level.

The module discuses health and how health is disrupted by disease and disorder. The International Classification of diseases will be discussed and a brief review of national and international disease patterns will be considered.

The module will allow students the opportunity to apply their physiological knowledge towards an understanding of disease. An introduction to pathological processes will be made. The role of nutrition in the prevention and treatment of disease will be discussed. National disease trends will be examined; key disorders such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and cancer will be examined in depth.

This module aims to provide an overview of the anatomical structure and physiology of the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems in the human body. It is intended to explore the role of the nervous system in the physiology of stress and its role in homeostasis. The module also aims to enable students to identify and understand the function of human bones, muscles and joints and provides an overview of the anatomical structure and physiology of the heart, lung, cardiovascular and respiratory systems in the human body.

The module explores the role of the endocrine system in homeostasis. It is intended to explore the components of the blood and immune system and their various functions. Students will be given the opportunity to identify the anatomy and understand the physiology of the kidney, urogenital and digestive systems.

This module aims to provide students with an overview of biochemistry at the cellular level. The importance of cellular and molecular systems will be covered with a view of highlighting key signalling pathways required to sustain cellular functions. General concepts of biochemical signalling pathways will also be introduced.

This module is designed to provide a foundation to develop an understanding and appreciation of biochemistry in the context life processes. This module will focus on basic biochemical principles and introduce the fundamental building blocks of life with the inclusion of concepts relating to the structure and functional properties of biological molecules. The importance of cellular and molecular pathways will be covered with a view of highlighting key metabolic pathways required to sustain cellular functions. Basic concepts of biochemical signalling pathways will also be introduced.

This module aims to introduce the skills and knowledge necessary to assimilate and judge scientific knowledge. Students will have the opportunity to search and evaluate the scientific literature relevant to their studies, and learn some of the key philosophical constructs around which scientific knowledge is based.

Students can be taught about hypothesis testing, experimental design, data collection, basic mathematical and statistical concepts and data presentation, and gain hands-on experience of their application.

This module provides an introduction to the theoretical principles, instrumentation and applications of a range of techniques relevant to the biosciences. Applications will be related to key biological molecules and cellular systems as appropriate. The module content will build on biochemical and cell biology knowledge gained at level 1. The module provides background required for study of these techniques and biomolecules at higher levels and aims to develop the basic analytical skills which can aid students in their final year projects.

The module aims to provide an overview of the biology of some common human diseases, such as cancer, haemostatic disorders, neurological disease and anaemia. It will aim to introduce students to the use of laboratory techniques in the investigation of disease, from a theoretical and practical point of view.

This module aims to provide an overview of the cellular and molecular basis of the immune response in health and diseases. The structure, function and complex mechanisms of host defence by B- and T-Cells will be discussed.

Students will be given the opportunity to evaluate the role of inflammatory mediators, soluble effectors and cellular cytotoxicity in inflammation and immunity.

The module aims to provides an overview of the main principles of medical biochemistry. It aims to enable students to discuss endocrine disease as well as liver, respiratory, gastrointestinal, vascular and renal disease.

This module provides an overview of medical microbiology including bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms of medical importance, both through study of specific organisms, but also through the study of a variety of body systems. The module considers the transmission of infectious disease, including a discussion regarding situations of medical environments, and control and treatment of infectious disease.

Molecular biology is of critical importance when understanding biological systems. This module is designed to provide students with an insight into the techniques used and applied by molecular biologists in a number of specific contexts.

This module aims to introduce the principles of experimental design and various methods of collection of quantitative and qualitative data. It describes statistical significance tests for comparing data and aims to enable students to practise where and how to use each statistical test.

The module will give students the opportunity to critically assess published work with regard to design of experiment and analysis of data. It will aim to provide students with skills required to design and analyse a research project generally, and specifically that undertaken in year three of their course.

This module examines the application of molecular techniques to study ecology, evolution and conservation of animal populations and species. It aims to provide the theoretical background for understanding evolutionary and population genetics. Case studies will be used to illustrate how the theory and molecular techniques are applied to inform behavioural, ecological and conservation questions, particularly relating to management of rare and threatened species of animals.

Biotechnology is the use of biological products, organisms and processes to improve the quality of human life. Biotechnology is a globally important multi-billion pound industry, with applications across medicine, industry and environmental sectors. This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the field of biotechnology, introducing some of the methodological (including molecular biology) approaches that are important in biotechnology and focus on biotechnological products and processes within medicine, industry and the environment (including plant biotechnology).

The module provides an overview of the role of cellular pathology in the diagnosis and monitoring of malignant and non-malignant diseases. This module intends to discuss the normal and abnormal histology and ultra-structural features of human cells and tissues. The module enables students to appraise the role of modern diagnostic technologies in pathological differential diagnosis.

The module aims to provide an overview of the role of clinical biochemistry and immunology laboratories in the functional diagnosis and monitoring of endocrine function, bone metabolism, malignancy, gout, allergy, autoimmunity and nutritional status.

The module aims to provide an overview of the applications of clinical genetics and its ethical and social considerations. This module also intends to discuss genetic counselling, prenatal diagnosis of genetic disease and also carrier detection and pre-symptomatic testing.

The module gives students the opportunity to evaluate the population screening, and community genetics for single gene and chromosome disorders and also the ethical and social considerations of the Human Genome Project and treatment of genetic diseases and gene therapy.

The module provides an overview of the pathogenesis and diagnosis of the various non-malignant and malignant blood diseases. This module intends to discuss haemopoiesis, erythrocyte disorders, acute and chronic leukaemia, myeloproliferative and lymphoproliferative disorders.

This module aims to reinforce the underlying concepts and principles of microbiology developed previously. Students will have the opportunity to become familiar with diagnostic techniques involved in the field of microbiology, and will be able to apply their developing knowledge and skills to some contemporary issues and concerns in the field of microbiology.

In this module, students are expected to undertake an independent programme of research under supervision from a member of staff. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate original and critical thought, as well as to build practical and project-management skills.

A wide range of subject expertise exists within the School, and students are expected to select a project that is relevant to their programme of study. Under the guidance of a supervisor, students will review the literature, identify a hypothesis or hypotheses and design a programme of research to test these. They will be expected to manage the project, which will include obtaining relevant ethical approval and conducting a risk assessment. They are expected to collect and analyse data, recording their activities in a notebook.

We currently offer projects in the laboratory or field, projects that involve mathematical modelling, systematic reviews or meta-analysis of pre-collected data. Students may work individually or in groups addressing similar questions, but must write up individually. The findings of the research will be written up in the format of a scientific paper following closely the style of a key journal relevant to their area of study, or as a thesis, and will also be presented orally.

An overseas field course gives students the opportunity to investigate biological phenomena in the field. See the Features tab for more information on potential costs incurred by these opportunities.

Students will be encouraged to view the ecosystem within the wider context of the anthropogenic impacts being imposed on it, and will be expected to work in groups, guided by staff, to develop and test hypotheses with the aim of allowing them to understand more about biological processes operating within the study area.

This module provides an overview of blood donor selection, collection, testing and blood processing and components storage for transfusion and its adverse effects. It will discuss immunohaematology and techniques used for detection and identification. The module will also look at whole organ transplantation and how donors and recipients are matched to prevent acute rejection and ensure long-term graft survival. This aims to enable students to appraise acute and delayed adverse transfusion effects as well as the transfusion-transmitted diseases.

The impact of parasites to the health, welfare and productivity of animals remains one of the most important issues in veterinary biology. A detailed understanding of the biology and epidemiology of parasites and the association they have with their hosts is vital in protecting and improving animal’s health and welfare. This module aims to provide a theoretical background for understanding the specialised features that parasites have developed to adapt to their host, the diseases which result and advances in treatment and prevention of infection.

Students can also learn analytical laboratory methods for the identification of different types of ecto- and endoparasites. Case studies will be used to illustrate how the current advances in research are applied to inform the epidemiology, control and prevention of parasite mediated disease in animals and monitor emergent diseases globally and within the UK.

†The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Assessment Feedback

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to students promptly – usually within 15 working days after the submission date (unless stated differently above)..

Methods of Assessment

The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that are used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. The weighting given to each assessment method may vary across each academic year. The University of Lincoln aims to ensure that staff return in-course assessments to students promptly.

You will be taught by academics who are considered to be at the forefront of their respective fields. Many publish their findings widely, contribute to policy advisory bodies and regularly communicate science to the general public.

Overseas Field Course (Optional Module)

This optional module in your final year involves an overseas field trip. This will provide the opportunity to do research in a novel environment and to study local plants and animals. Destinations may vary, but in 2016 included the cloud forests of Ecuador, the Atacama Desert in Chile, the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve in South Africa, Peniche in Portugal and the Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland.

Students who opt to undertake a field trip overseas will be expected to cover transport costs (including flight costs). These costs will vary depending on the location of the field trip. Accommodation and meals at the field sites are fully funded by the University.

Students may be required to pay for overnight stays, local travel and food close to the destination if their flights arrive the day before the team are scheduled to meet. Students may bring personal items of clothing and travel equipment, some of which may be specialised for the environment they are travelling to, and recommended medicines and travel toiletries such as anti-malaria medication, vaccinations, insect repellent and sunscreen. These costs will depend on what you choose to bring.

Student as Producer

Student as Producer is a model of teaching and learning that encourages academics and undergraduate students to collaborate on research activities. It is a programme committed to learning through doing.

The Student as Producer initiative was commended by the QAA in our 2012 review and is one of the teaching and learning features that makes the Lincoln experience unique.

All full-time Biomedical Science students may take an optional placement year between the second and third year of the programme. These placements are student-led though you will be continuously supported by academic staff throughout.

Placements provide you with the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience and a chance to hone your skills in a professional environment.

When you are on an optional placement in the UK, you will be required to cover your own transport and accommodation and meals costs.

Additional Costs

For each course students may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required, depending on their subject area. Some courses provide opportunities for students to undertake field work or field trips. Where these are compulsory, the cost for the travel, accommodation and meals may be covered by the University and so is included in the fee. Where these are optional students will normally (unless stated otherwise) be required to pay their own transportation, accommodation and meal costs.

With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that students are required to read. However, students may prefer to purchase some of these for themselves and will therefore be responsible for this cost. Where there may be exceptions to this general rule, information will be displayed in a section titled Other Costs below.

Access to Higher Education Diploma in a Science subject accepted: A minimum of 45 level 3 credits at merit or above will be required, 15 of which must be in Biology.

We will also consider extensive, relevant work experience.

In addition, applicants must have at least 3 GCSEs at grade C or above in English, Maths and Science. Level 2 equivalent qualifications such as BTEC First Certificates and Level 2 Functional Skills will be considered.

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk.

The Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) https://www.ibms.org is the professional body for those who work within the field of biomedical science.

An IBMS accredited degree programme provides students with a wide ranging, research-informed scientific education, covering the molecular, cellular and systemic basis of disease and the application of scientific principles and techniques to its investigation, diagnosis and treatment.

IBMS accreditation is an internationally recognised quality benchmark, which ensures a biomedical science degree programme is taught to a high standard, relevant to current professional practice and anticipates future developments in the scientific field.

IBMS accreditation ensures that your honours degree course meets the academic requirements for registration as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

In order to register as a biomedical scientist, you would need additionally to complete the IBMS registration portfolio in an approved laboratory.

This course provides experience of a wide variety of topics relevant to human health and disease, applicable to careers in medical and scientific research, biomedical science, and healthcare, including careers in the NHS.

The first year introduces the key areas of biomedical science, including cell biology, genetics and disease. Students have the opportunity to develop the research skills that are vital for a practising scientist.

In the second year, students study pharmacology, immunology and disease biology and can be introduced to analytical techniques.

In the final year, students examine topics such as infection science, haematology and cellular pathology, in addition to completing an individual research project.

Contact Hours and Reading for a Degree

Students on this programme learn from academic staff who are often engaged in world-leading or internationally excellent research or professional practice. Contact time can be in workshops, practical sessions, seminars or lectures and may vary from module to module and from academic year to year. Tutorial sessions and project supervision can take the form of one-to-one engagement or small group sessions. Some courses offer the opportunity to take part in external visits and fieldwork.

It is still the case that students read for a degree and this means that in addition to scheduled contact hours, students are required to engage in independent study. This allows you to read around a subject and to prepare for lectures and seminars through wider reading, or to complete follow up tasks such as assignments or revision. As a general guide, the amount of independent study required by students at the University of Lincoln is that for every hour in class you are expected to spend at least two to three hours in independent study.

This module aims to provide an introduction to the structure, composition and function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. From this basis the module considers cell specialisation and division and an introduction to microscopy, histological and microbiological techniques which may be used to safely examine and identify cells and tissues.

This module is designed to provide students with an introduction to genetics by discussing the development of genetics as a field of science, from molecular genetics through Mendelian genetics, to genetics at the population level. Students have previously studied cell biology and biochemistry, and this knowledge is built on in order to consider the replication, maintenance and expression of the genome. This module aims to provide the knowledge necessary to study applications of molecular biology at a higher level.

This module discuses health and how health is disrupted by disease and disorder. The International Classification of diseases will be discussed and a brief review of national and international disease patterns will be considered.

The module will allow students the opportunity to apply their physiological knowledge towards an understanding of disease. An introduction to pathological processes will be made and the role of nutrition in the prevention and treatment of disease will be discussed. National disease trends will be examined; key disorders such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and cancer will be examined in depth.

This module provides an overview of the anatomical structure and physiology of the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems in the human body. It is intended to explore the role of the nervous system in the physiology of stress and its role in homeostasis. The module will also enable students to identify and understand the function of human bones, muscles and joints and provides an overview of the anatomical structure and physiology of the heart, lung, cardiovascular and respiratory systems in the human body

The module explores the role of the endocrine system in homeostasis. It is intended to explore the components of the blood and immune system and their various functions. It will enable you to identify the anatomy and understand the physiology of the kidney, urogenital and digestive systems.

This module aims to provide students with an overview of biochemistry at the cellular level. The importance of cellular and molecular systems will be covered with a view of highlighting key signalling pathways required to sustain cellular functions. General concepts of biochemical signalling pathways will also be introduced.

This module is designed to provide a foundation to develop an understanding and appreciation of biochemistry in the context life processes. The module will focus on basic biochemical principles and introduce the fundamental building blocks of life with the inclusion of concepts relating to the structure and functional properties of biological molecules. The importance of cellular and molecular pathways will be covered with a view of highlighting key metabolic pathways required to sustain cellular functions. Basic concepts of biochemical signalling pathways will also be introduced.

This module aims to introduce the skills and knowledge necessary to assimilate and judge scientific knowledge. Students are introduced to the tools required to search and evaluate the scientific literature relevant to their studies, and some of the key philosophical constructs around which scientific knowledge is based. Students can develop an understanding of hypothesis testing, experimental design, data collection, basic mathematical and statistical concepts and data presentation, and are shown how these methods are put into practice through a series of research seminars.

This module provides an introduction to the theoretical principles, instrumentation and applications of a range of techniques relevant to the biosciences. Applications will be related to key biological molecules and cellular systems as appropriate. The module content will build on biochemical and cell biology knowledge gained at level 1. The module provides background required for study of these techniques and biomolecules at higher levels and aims to develop the basic analytical skills which can aid students in their final year projects.

The module provides an overview of the biology of some common human diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, haemostatic disorders, neurological disease, gastrointestinal disease and anaemia. It aims to introduce students to the use of laboratory techniques in the investigation of disease, from a theoretical and practical point of view.

This module provides an overview of the cellular and molecular basis of the immune response in health and human diseases. The structure, function and complex mechanisms of host defence by B- and T-Cells will be discussed. Students will evaluate the role of inflammatory mediators, soluble effectors and cellular cytotoxicity in inflammation and immunity.

The module provides an overview of the main principles of medical biochemistry It enables students to discuss endocrine disease as well as liver, respiratory, gastrointestinal, vascular and renal disease.

This module provides an overview of medical microbiology including bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms of medical importance, both through study of specific organisms, but also through the study of a variety of body systems. The module considers the transmission of infectious disease, including a discussion regarding situations of medical environments, and control and treatment of infectious disease.

Molecular biology is of critical importance when understanding biological systems. This module is designed to provide students with an insight into the techniques used and applied by molecular biologists in a number of specific contexts.

This module introduces the principles of experimental design and various methods of collection of quantitative and qualitative data. It describes statistical significance tests for comparing data and enables students to practise where and how to use each statistical test. The module is designed to allow students to critically assess published work with regard to design of experiment and analysis of data. It will provide students with the chance to develop the skills required to design and analyse a research project generally, and specifically that undertaken in year three of their course.

This module examines the application of molecular techniques to study ecology, evolution and conservation of animal populations and species. It aims to provide the theoretical background for understanding evolutionary and population genetics. Case studies will be used to illustrate how the theory and molecular techniques are applied to inform behavioural, ecological and conservation questions, particularly relating to management of rare and threatened species of animals.

Biotechnology is the use of biological products, organisms and processes to improve the quality of human life. Biotechnology is a globally important multi-billion pound industry, with applications across medicine, industry and environmental sectors. This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the field of biotechnology, introducing some of the methodological (including molecular biology) approaches that are important in biotechnology and focus on biotechnological products and processes within medicine, industry and the environment (including plant biotechnology).

The module provides an overview of the role of cellular pathology in the diagnosis and monitoring of malignant and non-malignant diseases. This module intends to discuss the normal and abnormal histology and ultra-structural features of human cells and tissues. The module enables students to appraise malignant and non-malignant gynaecological cytology, and the role of electron microscope and immunocytochemistry in pathological differential diagnosis.

The module provides an overview of the role of clinical biochemistry and immunology laboratories in the functional diagnosis and monitoring of endocrine function, bone metabolism, malignancy, gout, allergy, autoimmunity and nutritional status.

The module provides an overview of the applications of clinical genetics and its ethical and social considerations. This module also intends to discuss genetic counselling, prenatal diagnosis of genetic disease and also carrier detection and pre-symptomatic testing. The module enables students to evaluate the population screening, and community genetics for single gene and chromosome disorders and also the ethical and social considerations of the Human Genome Project and treatment of genetic diseases and gene therapy.

The module provides an overview of the pathogenesis and diagnosis of the various non-malignant and malignant blood diseases. This module intends to discuss haemopoiesis, erythrocyte disorders, acute and chronic leukaemia, myeloproliferative and lymphoproliferative disorders.

This module aims to reinforce the underlying concepts and principles of microbiology developed previously. Students can become familiar with diagnostic techniques involved in the field of microbiology, and will have the opportunity to apply their developing knowledge and skills to some contemporary issues and concerns in the field of microbiology.

In this module students undertake an independent programme of research under supervision from a member of staff. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate original and critical thought, as well as to build practical and project-management skills. A wide range of subject expertise exists within the School, and students are expected to select a project that is relevant to their programme of study. Under the guidance of a supervisor, students will review the literature, identify a hypothesis or hypotheses and design a programme of research to test these. They will be expected to manage the project, including obtaining relevant ethical approval and conducting a risk assessment. They will collect and analyse data, recording their activities in a notebook. We currently offer projects in the laboratory or field, or projects that involve mathematical modelling, systematic reviews or meta-analysis of pre-collected data. Students may work individually or in groups addressing similar questions, but must write up individually. The project should be written up in the format of a scientific paper following closely the style of a key journal relevant to their area of study, or as a thesis.

An overseas field course gives students the opportunity to investigate biological phenomena in the field. See the Features tab for more information on potential costs incurred by these opportunities.

Students will be encouraged to view the ecosystem within the wider context of the anthropogenic impacts being imposed on it, and will be expected to work in groups, guided by staff, to develop and test hypotheses with the aim of allowing them to understand more about biological processes operating within the study area.

It provides an overview of blood donor selection, collection, testing and blood processing and components storage for transfusion and its adverse effects. It will discuss immunohaematology and techniques used for detection and identification of relevant antibodies. This will enable students to appraise acute and delayed adverse transfusion effects as well as the transfusion-transmitted diseases.

The impact of parasites to the health, welfare and productivity of animals remains one of the most important issues in veterinary biology. A detailed understanding of the biology and epidemiology of parasites and the association they have with their hosts is vital in protecting and improving animal’s health and welfare. This module aims to provide a theoretical background for understanding the specialised features that parasites have developed to adapt to their host, the diseases which result and advances in treatment and prevention of infection.

Students can also learn analytical laboratory methods for the identification of different types of ecto- and endoparasites. Case studies will be used to illustrate how the current advances in research are applied to inform the epidemiology, control and prevention of parasite mediated disease in animals and monitor emergent diseases globally and within the UK.

†The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

In the first year, assessment is 39% coursework, 15% practical exams, and 46% written exams. In the second year it is 31% coursework, 19% practical exams, and 50% written exams. In the third year it is 60% coursework, 8% practical exams, and 32% written exams.

The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that are used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. The University of Lincoln’s policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.

You will be taught by academics who are considered to be at the forefront of their respective fields. Many publish their findings widely, contribute to policy advisory bodies and regularly communicate science to the general public.

Overseas Field Course (Optional Module)

This optional module in your final year involves an overseas field trip. This will provide the opportunity to do research in a novel environment and to study local plants and animals. Destinations may vary, but in 2016 included the cloud forests of Ecuador, the Atacama Desert in Chile, the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve in South Africa, Peniche in Portugal and the Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland.

Students who opt to undertake a field trip overseas will be expected to cover transport costs (including flight costs). These costs will vary depending on the location of the field trip. Accommodation and meals at the field sites are fully funded by the University.

Students may be required to pay for overnight stays, local travel and food close to the destination if their flights arrive the day before the team are scheduled to meet. Students may bring personal items of clothing and travel equipment, some of which may be specialised for the environment they are travelling to, and recommended medicines and travel toiletries such as anti-malaria medication, vaccinations, insect repellent and sunscreen. These costs will depend on what you choose to bring.

Student as Producer

Student as Producer is a model of teaching and learning that encourages academics and undergraduate students to collaborate on research activities. It is a programme committed to learning through doing.

The Student as Producer initiative was commended by the QAA in our 2012 review and is one of the teaching and learning features that makes the Lincoln experience unique.

All full-time Biomedical Science students may take an optional placement year between the second and third year of the programme. These placements are student-led though you will be continuously supported by academic staff throughout.

Placements provide you with the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience and a chance to hone your skills in a professional environment.

When you are on an optional placement in the UK, you will be required to cover your own transport and accommodation and meals costs.

Additional Costs

For each course students may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required, depending on their subject area. Some courses provide opportunities for students to undertake field work or field trips. Where these are compulsory, the cost for the travel, accommodation and meals may be covered by the University and so is included in the fee. Where these are optional students will normally (unless stated otherwise) be required to pay their own transportation, accommodation and meal costs.

With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that students are required to read. However, students may prefer to purchase some of these for themselves and will therefore be responsible for this cost. Where there may be exceptions to this general rule, information will be displayed in a section titled Other Costs below.

*not all modules are accepted. Please contact our Admissions team for further information (admissions@lincoln.ac.uk).

Access to Higher Education Diploma in a Science subject accepted: A minimum of 45 level 3 credits at merit or above will be required, 15 of which must be in Biology or Chemistry.

We will also consider extensive, relevant work experience.

In addition, applicants must have at least 3 GCSEs at grade C or above in English, Maths and Science. Level 2 equivalent qualifications such as BTEC First Certificates and Level 2 Functional Skills will be considered.

For applicants who do not meet our standard entry requirements, our Science Foundation Year can provide an alternative route of entry onto our full degree programmes:

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk.

Quick Links

Throughout this degree, students may receive tuition from professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, researchers, practitioners, visiting experts or technicians, and they may be supported in their learning by other students.

Dr Rea has been at the University of Lincoln since 2002, helping set up, develop and run the biomedical science award the university currently offers and collaborating in research on cancer.

Your Future Career

This degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, this provides an opportunity for graduates to work as qualified biomedical scientists with the NHS on completion of a portfolio of competencies and six to 12 months’ experience in a laboratory. Graduates have previously gone on to careers in research laboratories, universities, the NHS and the pharmaceutical industry. Others have continued their studies at MSc and PhD level, and some go on study medicine.

Careers Service

The University Careers and Employability Team offer qualified advisors who can work with students to provide tailored, individual support and careers advice during their time at the University. As a member of our alumni we also offer one-to-one support in the first year after completing a course, including access to events, vacancy information and website resources; with access to online vacancies and virtual resources for the following two years.

This service can include one-to-one coaching, CV advice and interview preparation to help you maximise our graduates future opportunities.

The service works closely with local, national and international employers, acting as a gateway to the business world.

This degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, this provides an opportunity for graduates to work as qualified biomedical scientists with the NHS on completion of a portfolio of competencies and six to 12 months’ experience in a laboratory. Graduates have previously gone on to careers in research laboratories, universities, the NHS and the pharmaceutical industry. Others have continued their studies at MSc and PhD level, and some go on study medicine.

Careers Service

The University Careers and Employability Team offer qualified advisors who can work with students to provide tailored, individual support and careers advice during their time at the University. As a member of our alumni we also offer one-to-one support in the first year after completing a course, including access to events, vacancy information and website resources; with access to online vacancies and virtual resources for the following two years.

This service can include one-to-one coaching, CV advice and interview preparation to help you maximise our graduates future opportunities.

The service works closely with local, national and international employers, acting as a gateway to the business world.

The lab experience and transferable skills I have gained have given me the
confidence to apply for PhDs and I now feel I can go on to something more
challenging as I have these skills behind me.

Joe Potter, MBio Biomedical Science

Facilities

At Lincoln, we constantly invest in our campus as we aim to provide the best learning environment for our undergraduates. Whatever the area of study, the University strives to ensure students have access to specialist equipment and resources, to develop the skills, which they may need in their future career.

Students have access to facilities in the Joseph Banks Laboratories and can conduct practical work with industry-standard apparatus.